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Hiccups - Management
How should I manage a short episode of hiccups?
- Reassure the person that their hiccups are likely to resolve spontaneously.
- Consider suggesting physical manoeuvres if these have not already been tried. These include:
- Stimulation of the nasopharynx: sipping iced water, swallowing granulated sugar, tasting vinegar, biting on a lemon.
- Interruption of normal respiratory function: Valsalva manoeuvre, breath holding, hyperventilating, breathing into a paper bag, sneezing.
- Counter-irritation of the diaphragm: pulling the knees up to the chest, leaning forward to compress the chest.
- Advise the person to return if their hiccups have not resolved in 48 hours or if they recur frequently, and consider referral.
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